Is Social Recruiting the Future of Hospitality Hiring?

Looking for quick tips on using social media to job hunt? Check out our TikTok video!

https://www.tiktok.com/@needatalent/video/7432347849045724438

With social media, it’s easier than ever for employers in hospitality to find and connect with the right candidates, often before they even need to advertise a role. The casual, visual nature of platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn helps employers build an audience and reach potential hires without the traditional barriers of recruitment. Here’s how hospitality businesses can harness social media for cost-effective, efficient hiring.

Promote Job Openings Directly on Your Social Media Accounts

One of the simplest ways to start recruiting on social media is by posting job openings on your company’s page. Although this may seem obvious, it’s worth considering a key point: posting too frequently about the same open position can actually be counterproductive. If followers keep seeing the same job vacancy, they may start wondering why it hasn’t been filled or if there’s a reason that candidates aren’t staying long. This can create an unintended impression that something might be “off” with the role or the work environment.

Instead, keep your postings fresh and varied, and if a position is still open, consider rephrasing the description, adding different visuals, or sharing employee testimonials about working with you. This maintains interest and engagement without raising unnecessary doubts among potential candidates. By striking the right balance, you can ensure your postings enhance your brand image and attract the right people without overselling a single position.

Engage Informally with Candidates

Social media lets you connect in a way that’s far more relaxed and personal than traditional hiring channels. Informal conversations on social platforms can help you get to know potential candidates’ personalities and work styles, which is critical for finding someone who fits well with your team.

However, while this ease of communication is a huge advantage, it’s essential not to fall into the trap of neglecting responses. Candidates are often quick to call out unresponsive employers directly under job posts, which can harm your brand image and raise questions about the legitimacy of the role. Ignoring inquiries or showing disinterest can lead people to wonder if the position is genuine or if the company values potential hires.

Instead, keep responses timely and thoughtful. Engage by replying to comments, asking follow-up questions to gauge interest, and encouraging private messages. This shows candidates that you’re approachable, dedicated, and serious about the opportunity, and it reflects positively on your brand in the eyes of all who see the interaction.

Give Candidates a Behind-the-Scenes Peek into Your Business

Candidates love to see what goes on behind the scenes, and social media offers the perfect way to showcase your workplace and culture authentically. Chefs, bartenders, and hospitality staff often share their work on social media, which can give you insight into their creativity and style. By posting behind-the-scenes content of your team, your restaurant’s busy kitchen, or a staff outing, you can provide a snapshot of what it’s like to work with you.

Here's an example: Many chefs use Instagram to showcase their dishes and plating techniques—a fantastic way to spot talent. Encourage your current team to tag themselves in relevant posts. This makes your job openings visible to their network, which likely includes people with similar interests, potentially reaching other qualified candidates.

Make Recruitment Cost-Effective

Advertising positions on job boards can quickly add up, but posting on social media is generally free, saving you money while reaching a broad audience. Building a strong online presence makes your job postings visible to a growing network of potential hires, who may come across your content through shares, hashtags, or word of mouth. This method is not only cost-effective, but it also brings in a higher chance of connecting with people who are genuinely excited about your brand.

Leverage Employee Ambassadors

Encourage your team to share job openings and company updates on their social media profiles. Employee advocacy can help you tap into a new pool of candidates, as employees’ friends and connections are likely to trust their insights about what it’s like to work with you.

In a way, your team becomes your ambassadors, giving a more personal recommendation than any job board can provide.

By approaching social media as a dynamic recruitment tool, you can find candidates who not only have the skills but also share the passion and personality that make them a great fit. Social media recruitment is about more than filling a position—it’s about building a brand, relationships and finding people who align with your vision and culture from the very start.

If you have a position that’s proving tricky to fill or just want to chat about how social recruiting could work for your business—without any commitment—feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help you navigate the process and find the best approach to connecting with top talent in hospitality!

• Need a Talent: info@needatalent.com | +44 207131 0903 | +44 7 539 208203